Cindy Flanders-Smith

Cindy Flanders-Smith, 70, of Florida, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025. Born in Orlando on August 17, 1955, Cindy lived a life defined by service, resilience, and deep love for her family and country. She grew up in Sanford, where she attended school and began her lifelong journey of public service. Her career began at the Sanford Herald and continued in law enforcement with the Longwood Police Department and Winter Park Police Department. She later worked in security roles with Martin Marietta, Cape Canaveral, and the Kennedy Space Center. Cindy also proudly served in the U.S. Army Active Reserve from 1983 to 2014, completing over 30 years of honorable military service.

Cindy was the daughter of the late Charles Flanders and Grace Benton, and was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Loran F. Smith and grandchildren Daniel Kyle Bass, Lauren Duncan and Ashlyn Jackson. She is survived by her devoted daughters, Tammy Jackson of Graysville, Alabama, and Danielle Zuleeg (Douglas) of Orlando, Florida. Her memory lives on through her grandchildren: Kurbi Sharp (Kyle) of Kentwood, Michigan; Kirsten Zuleeg of Orlando, Florida; Kaden Jackson (Shelby) of Snead, Alabama; Raelyn Jackson (Asher) of Douglas, Alabama; and Liana Ackerman of North Palm Beach, Florida. She shared a lifelong bond with her best friend, Linda Lund of North Palm Beach, Florida.

Cindy is also survived by her siblings, Rebecca Ambrose (Robert) of Crestview, Florida, and Eddie Benton (Cheryl). She was preceded in death by her brother Edwin Allen. 

Cindy Flanders-Smith lived a life of purpose, marked by quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and deep compassion for those around her. She will be remembered for her service, her love of family, and the lasting impact she had on everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a feral cat colony, animal shelter, or hospice facility of your choice in Cindy’s memory.